The Worst 5-Man Lineup For Every NBA Team This Season

As the regular season draws to a close, our journey through the NBA’s statistical landscape takes us to the less glamorous side of the game. After dissecting the least productive 3-man lineups for each team, we delve deeper into the realm of inefficiency to unveil the worst 5-man lineup for every franchise. With a minimum requirement of 100 possessions, we scrutinize the combinations that failed to click, the chemistry that never ignited, and the strategies that faltered. Join us in unraveling the numbers behind the struggles as we shine a light on the lineups that couldn’t quite find their rhythm amidst the fast-paced action of the NBA hardwood. 

1. Portland Trail Blazers

5-Man Lineup: Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, Toumani Camara, Jerami Grant, Duop Reath

Net Rating: -49.8

Possessions: 140

Amidst a challenging season, the Portland Trail Blazers have grappled with inconsistency and injuries. With a record of 21-58, they currently occupy the 14th spot in the Western Conference standings. This particular lineup, featuring Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, Toumani Camara, Jerami Grant, and Duop Reath, struggled significantly, posting a dismal net rating of -49.8 over 140 possessions. While the Blazers boast promising young talent, they’ve faced an uphill battle in finding cohesion and effectiveness on the court.

2. San Antonio Spurs

5-Man Lineup: Malaki Branham, Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, Zach Collins

Net Rating: -40.4

Possessions: 145

As the San Antonio Spurs undergo a period of rebuilding, they’ve navigated the season with a record of 20-60, placing them at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. In their quest for development and future success, they’ve experimented with various lineups.

However, this particular combination, consisting of Malaki Branham, Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, and Zach Collins, struggled notably, recording a net rating of -40.4 over 145 possessions. Despite the challenges, the Spurs remain focused on nurturing their young talent and building a foundation for sustained competitiveness in the future.

3. Chicago Bulls

5-Man Lineup: Coby White, Zach LaVine, Torrey Craig, DeMar DeRozan, Andre Drummond

Net Rating: -37.9

Possessions: 201

In the Eastern Conference playoff race, the Chicago Bulls find themselves in contention with a record of 37-42, currently occupying the 9th position. Despite the presence of star players like Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, their lineup comprising Coby White, Zach LaVine, Torrey Craig, DeMar DeRozan, and Andre Drummond struggled to find success, registering a net rating of -37.9 over 201 possessions.

As they strive for a postseason berth, the Bulls continue to adjust and refine their strategies, aiming to maximize their potential and secure a playoff spot in a competitive Eastern Conference landscape.

4. Los Angeles Clippers

5-Man Lineup: Russell Westbrook, James Harden, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, Ivica Zubac

Net Rating: -31.6

Possessions: 151

It’s remarkable that a lineup boasting such star power could struggle, but the Los Angeles Clippers faced challenges with their combination of Russell Westbrook, James Harden, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac. Their net rating of -31.6 over 151 possessions reflects their difficulty in finding synergy on the court. The arrival of Harden saw them lose six straight games, leading to Westbrook becoming a key contributor off the bench. While individually talented, their collective chemistry remains a work in progress.

5. Sacramento Kings

5-Man Lineup: Davion Mitchell, Malik Monk, Kevin Huerter, Harrison Barnes, Domantas Sabonis

Net Rating: -27.7

Possessions: 103

After finishing third last year, the Sacramento Kings find themselves in the eighth spot this season. However, their lineup featuring Davion Mitchell, Malik Monk, Kevin Huerter, Harrison Barnes, and Domantas Sabonis has struggled, posting a net rating of -27.7 over 103 possessions. Interestingly, all players from this lineup, except for Sabonis, have had less impressive seasons compared to the 2022-23 campaign. Despite their efforts, the Kings have faced challenges in replicating their previous success.

6. Denver Nuggets

5-Man Lineup: Reggie Jackson, Christian Braun, Julian Strawther, Peyton Watson, Zeke Nnaji

Net Rating: -26.7

Possessions: 157

As the top team in the Western Conference and reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets have showcased their depth and versatility. However, their lineup consisting of Reggie Jackson, Christian Braun, Julian Strawther, Peyton Watson, and Zeke Nnaji presents a unique composition of rookie and sophomore players.

This lineup, deployed primarily in non-crucial situations, has recorded a net rating of -26.7 over 157 possessions. Despite their youth and limited experience together, these players have contributed valuably to the Nuggets’ success, demonstrating the team’s depth and adaptability.

7. Washington Wizards

5-Man Lineup: Tyus Jones, Jordan Poole, Bilal Coulibaly, Deni Avdija, Kyle Kuzma

Net Rating: -26.2

Possessions: 195

This year has been one of reconstruction for the Washington Wizards, following the trade of Bradley Beal to Phoenix. The team has struggled to find a clear direction, featuring a mix of young talents without a defined franchise player. The lineup of Tyus Jones, Jordan Poole, Bilal Coulibaly, Deni Avdija, and Kyle Kuzma reflects this transitional phase, with a net rating of -26.2 over 195 possessions. Amidst the uncertainty and disorder, the Wizards currently sit at the 14th spot in the Eastern Conference.

8. Charlotte Hornets

5-Man Lineup: Tre Mann, Brandon Miller, Davis Bertans, Grant Williams, Nick Richards

Net Rating: -23.0

Possessions: 144

Also undergoing their own reconstruction, the Charlotte Hornets have faced challenges this season, compounded by injuries such as LaMelo Ball’s absence. With a lineup featuring Tre Mann, Brandon Miller, Davis Bertans, Grant Williams, and Nick Richards, the Hornets have struggled to establish themselves, recording a net rating of -23.0 over 144 possessions.

In a season marked by challenges and uncertainties, the Hornets find themselves navigating a path forward, seeking to rebuild and redefine their identity amidst a competitive Eastern Conference landscape.

9. Utah Jazz

5-Man Lineup: Talen Horton-Tucker, Jordan Clarkson, Lauri Markkanen, John Collins, Walker Kessler

Net Rating: -21.4

Possessions: 174

The Utah Jazz are also in the process of reconstruction this year, with a record of 29-50 and sitting at the 12th spot in the Western Conference. The lineup composed of Talen Horton-Tucker, Jordan Clarkson, Lauri Markkanen, John Collins, and Walker Kessler reflects this transitional phase. Though they have faced difficulties, the Jazz are focused on developing their talent and building a solid foundation for the future as they seek to regain their competitiveness in the demanding Western Conference.

10. Golden State Warriors

5-Man Lineup: Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Klay Thompson, Jonathan Kuminga, Kevon Looney

Net Rating: -20.9

Possessions: 231

The Golden State Warriors have faced numerous struggles this season. Both Klay Thompson and Kevon Looney have not performed at their peak, while Brandin Podziemski is a rookie who is finding his footing in the league. Additionally, Jonathan Kuminga took some time to hit his stride, not fully blossoming until February. With a record of 44-35, the Warriors currently sit in the 10th spot in the Western Conference standings. Despite the challenges, they remain a team to watch, especially with Stephen Curry leading the charge.

11. Phoenix Suns

5-Man Lineup: Devin Booker, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, Kevin Durant, Jusuf Nurkic

Net Rating: -20.7

Possessions: 147

The Phoenix Suns, often considered a superteam, have underperformed this season in terms of standings. With a record of 47-33, they currently occupy the 7th spot in the competitive Western Conference. Hindered by a lack of depth on the bench and numerous injuries, the Suns have struggled to find consistency. The lineup of Devin Booker, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, Kevin Durant, and Jusuf Nurkic reflects their efforts to navigate these challenges and maintain competitiveness in the tough Western Conference.

12. Toronto Raptors

5-Man Lineup: Immanuel Quickley, Gary Trent Jr., Ochai Agbaji, Gradey Dick, Kelly Olynyk

Net Rating: -20.3

Possessions: 132

The Toronto Raptors underwent significant changes this year, trading away key players such as Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby. As a result, they find themselves in a rebuilding phase with a young and newly assembled team. With a lineup featuring Immanuel Quickley, Gary Trent Jr., Ochai Agbaji, Gradey Dick, and Kelly Olynyk, chemistry is still a work in progress. Despite the challenges, the Raptors are focused on developing their young talent and laying the foundation for future success.

13. Houston Rockets

5-Man Lineup: Fred Vanvleet, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Jeff Green, Jabari Smith Jr.

Net Rating: -20.1

Possessions: 127

The Houston Rockets, a young team with a couple of defensive liabilities and struggles to score consistently, have posted a record of 39-40, placing them in the 11th position in the Western Conference. This lineup, featuring Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Jeff Green, and Jabari Smith Jr., highlights their challenges on both ends of the floor. Despite their youth and potential, the Rockets continue to work towards finding a balance between defense and offense as they strive for improvement and growth.

14. Milwaukee Bucks

5-Man Lineup: Damian Lillard, Malik Beasley, Jae Crowder, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bobby Portis

Net Rating: -19.8

Possessions: 118

With a record of 49-31, securing the 2nd spot in the Eastern Conference, the Milwaukee Bucks have enjoyed success this season. However, their lineup consisting of Damian Lillard, Malik Beasley, Jae Crowder, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bobby Portis exhibits a lack of perimeter defensive capabilities. Despite their offensive firepower, particularly with the addition of Lillard, the Bucks face challenges in containing opponents on the defensive end. As they gear up for playoff contention, tightening up their defense will be crucial for their postseason aspirations.

15. Atlanta Hawks

5-Man Lineup: Trae Young, Dejounte Murray, Saddiq Bey, Jalen Johnson, Clint Capela

Net Rating: -15.3

Possessions: 628

The Atlanta Hawks deployed this lineup as their starting unit for a significant portion of the season. However, it’s evident that Trae Young and Dejounte Murray lack optimal cohesion together. This raises questions about Atlanta’s direction moving forward, particularly regarding the dynamic between Young and Murray in the offseason of 2024. The Hawks will face a crucial decision regarding their backcourt composition, potentially reshaping their roster to maximize their competitiveness in the future.

16. Brooklyn Nets

5-Man Lineup: Spencer Dinwiddie, Cam Thomas, Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Nic Claxton

Net Rating: -13.4

Possessions: 466

This lineup, often serving as the starting unit for the Brooklyn Nets in many games, reflects their rebuilding phase. With a record of 32-48, they currently occupy the 11th spot in the Eastern Conference standings. The combination of Spencer Dinwiddie, Cam Thomas, Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, and Nic Claxton struggled to find consistency and cohesion on the court. As the Nets continue their reconstruction efforts, they look towards the future with hopes of developing their young talent and returning to contention in the years to come.

17. Philadelphia 76ers

5-Man Lineup: Tyrese Maxey, De’Anthony Melton, Tobias Harris, Robert Covington, Joel Embiid

Net Rating: -12.4

Possessions: 141

Several key players for the Philadelphia 76ers were present in this lineup, which experienced a decline from being contenders in the conference to the 7th spot in the Eastern Conference with a record of 32-48. The absence of Joel Embiid due to injury affected the team’s performance, while this lineup lacked scoring power and was outmatched defensively. As they aim to bounce back, the Sixers will need to address their scoring deficiencies and shore up their defense to regain their competitive edge.

18. New York Knicks

5-Man Lineup: Jalen Brunson, Quentin Grimes, Josh Hart, Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson

Net Rating: -11.6

Possessions: 215

This lineup, utilized by the New York Knicks before the trade deadline, struggled to generate offense and could have been stronger defensively. However, the Knicks have since improved, boasting a record of 47-32 and currently sitting in the 3rd spot in the Eastern Conference standings. The addition of key players and adjustments to their lineup have contributed to their resurgence, demonstrating their ability to adapt and compete at a high level in the competitive landscape of the NBA’s Eastern Conference.

19. Detroit Pistons

5-Man Lineup: Killian Hayes, Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, Isaiah Stewart, Jalen Duren

Net Rating: -10.2

Possessions: 213

Despite being the league’s worst team with a record of 13-66 and occupying the 15th spot in the Eastern Conference standings, the Detroit Pistons’ lineup of Killian Hayes, Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, Isaiah Stewart, and Jalen Duren has surprisingly not fared worse. The team struggles with poor spacing and lacks offensive firepower. Additionally, their young defenders, while talented, lack maturity. As they continue their development, the Pistons look to address these issues and improve their performance in the future.

20. Minnesota Timberwolves

5-Man Lineup: Mike Conley, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Kyle Anderson, Rudy Gobert

Net Rating: -9.7

Possessions: 244

Despite their 2nd-place standing in the Western Conference, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ lineup featuring Mike Conley, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Kyle Anderson, and Rudy Gobert struggled offensively. This combination lacked functional offensive threats, leading to a net rating of -9.7 over 244 possessions. While the Timberwolves have enjoyed success overall, they will need to address these offensive deficiencies to maintain their competitiveness in the playoffs.

21. Los Angeles Lakers

5-Man Lineup: Austin Reaves, Cam Reddish, Taurean Prince, LeBron James, Anthony Davos

Net Rating: -9.3

Possessions: 203

In contrast to the Timberwolves, the Los Angeles Lakers lineup featuring Austin Reaves, Cam Reddish, Taurean Prince, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis performs better offensively but struggles defensively. With a net rating of -9.3 over 203 possessions, this lineup fails to provide adequate defensive prowess, contributing to the Lakers’ 10th-place standing in the Western Conference. As they approach the end of the regular season, the Lakers will need to find a better balance between offense and defense to secure a playoff spot.

22. Orlando Magic

5-Man Lineup: Cole Anthony, Gary Harris, Joe Ingles, Franz Wagner, Mo Wagner

Net Rating: -7.7

Possessions: 108

The Orlando Magic are currently enjoying a resurgence, finding themselves in the 5th position in the Eastern Conference standings. One of the key factors contributing to their success is the depth of their roster, allowing them to deploy various lineups with versatility on both ends of the court. 

This depth ensures that even in situations where certain lineups may not perform optimally, they have plenty of alternatives to rely on. The lineup consisting of Cole Anthony, Gary Harris, Joe Ingles, Franz Wagner, and Mo Wagner may have a net rating of -7.7 over 108 possessions, but it’s important to note that the Magic’s overall performance has been strong, thanks to their ability to adapt and utilize their roster effectively.

23. Cleveland Cavaliers

5-Man Lineup: Darius Garland, Max Strus, Caris LeVert, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Net Rating: -6.0

Possessions: 121

The Cleveland Cavaliers have faced challenges in scoring, particularly in the absence of Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell’s absence highlights Cleveland’s reliance on him as a primary scoring option, making it difficult for them to maintain offensive consistency without him on the floor. 

This lineup, featuring Darius Garland, Max Strus, Caris LeVert, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, has a net rating of -6.0 over 121 possessions, underscoring the team’s struggle to generate offense without their key scorer. As they navigate the remainder of the season, the Cavaliers will need to find ways to compensate for Mitchell’s absence and improve their offensive output to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

24. Miami Heat

5-Man Lineup: Terry Rozier, Duncan Robinson, Jimmy Butler, Nikola Jovic, Bam Adebayo

Net Rating: -5.8

Possessions: 372

While the Miami Heat started the season strong, their defensive performance has suffered since the trade deadline. This decline in defensive efficiency has coincided with a drop in the standings, with the Heat currently occupying the 8th spot in the Eastern Conference. 

The lineup of Terry Rozier, Duncan Robinson, Jimmy Butler, Nikola Jovic, and Bam Adebayo has a net rating of -5.8 over 372 possessions, indicating their struggles, particularly in perimeter defense. As they approach the playoffs, Miami will need to address their defensive issues to regain their position as one of the top contenders in the East.

25. Indiana Pacers

5-Man Lineup: Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Bruce Brown, Aaron Nesmith, Myles Turner

Net Rating: -5.7

Possessions: 106

Despite their offensive prowess, the Indiana Pacers have faced challenges on the defensive end with this lineup. While they have managed to secure the 6th spot in the Eastern Conference standings, their defensive struggles have been evident. The lineup of Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Bruce Brown, Aaron Nesmith, and Myles Turner has a net rating of -5.7 over 106 possessions, highlighting their difficulty in maintaining defensive stability. 

As they aim to solidify their position in the playoffs, the Pacers will need to find ways to improve their defensive performance while continuing to capitalize on their offensive strengths.

26. Memphis Grizzlies

5-Man Lineup: Marcus Smart, Desmond Bane, Ziaire Williams, Jaren Jackson Jr., Xavier Tillman

Net Rating: -5.4

Possessions: 149

The Memphis Grizzlies have faced an onslaught of injuries this season, preventing any lineup from establishing prolonged consistency. This tumultuous situation has led to an unprecedented scenario in NBA history, with the team fielding a whopping 31 different players throughout the year. Despite these challenges, the Grizzlies have persevered, currently holding a record of 27-53 and occupying the 13th spot in the highly competitive Western Conference.

27. Dallas Mavericks

5-Man Lineup: Luka Doncic, Tim Hardaway Jr., Derrick Jones Jr., Grant Williams, Derek Lively II

Net Rating: -2.3

Possessions: 130

Following significant changes at the trade deadline, particularly in the frontcourt with the additions of PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford, the Dallas Mavericks have witnessed a marked improvement in this lineup. The impact of these acquisitions has been evident as the Mavericks are currently on a winning streak and sit comfortably in the 5th position in the Western Conference standings.

28. New Orleans Pelicans

5-Man Lineup: CJ McCollum, Brandon Ingram, Herb Jones, Zion Williamson, Jonas Valanciunas

Net Rating: -0.3

Possessions: 899

Throughout the course of the season, the New Orleans Pelicans have gradually found cohesion and synergy among their players. This has been particularly evident in this lineup, featuring CJ McCollum, Brandon Ingram, Herb Jones, Zion Williamson, and Jonas Valanciunas. The team’s improvement is reflected in their nearly neutral net rating of -0.3 over a significant sample size of 899 possessions. As a result of their improved performance and chemistry, the Pelicans currently hold the 6th spot in the Western Conference standings, poised for a competitive playoff push.

29. Oklahoma City Thunder

5-Man Lineup: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cason Wallace, Josh Giddey, Lu Dort, Chet Holmgren

Net Rating: +0.4

Possessions: 125

The Oklahoma City Thunder exhibit remarkable versatility, with a plethora of lineup options that prevent any combination from yielding a negative net rating. This particular lineup, featuring Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cason Wallace, Josh Giddey, Lu Dort, and Chet Holmgren, exemplifies the Thunder’s ability to maintain both offensive and defensive efficiency simultaneously. While the lack of outside shooting may be a concern, their depth and productivity have propelled them to the 2nd position in the Western Conference standings.

30. Boston Celtics

5-Man Lineup: Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Al Horford

Net Rating: +4.0

Possessions: 638

The Boston Celtics have found tremendous success by relying on consistent lineup combinations, resulting in an impressive record of 62-17 and securing the top spot in the Eastern Conference standings. This lineup, featuring Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and Al Horford, exemplifies the Celtics’ strengths and versatility. Their ability to excel on both ends of the floor, coupled with their adaptability, has propelled them to the forefront of the league. As they continue their dominant performance, the Celtics showcase their prowess as one of the most formidable teams in the NBA.